Fenix LD22 V2

I have used several hand torches (or flashlights) over the years, the one commonality that wins me over has been weight and size versus power. If a torch gives me a solid amount of brightness and battery life, light in weight but hardwearing and easily carried, then it works. As opposed to a Headtorch, hand torches are useful to have as an easily directed and indeed, back up light source; the Fenix LD22 fills this niche easily in performance and price.
Being no stranger to the professional user, Fenix have established themselves as a market leader in Cree LED light technology. Having used other brands that also ‘lead’ within the same market, Fenix has won me over with this torch from the outset. I always try and make sure all items I use are of the same battery type; and AA batteries (NiMH or alkaline) are available anywhere in the world and easily picked up from hotel remote controls to third world cattle markets. This enables batteries to be easily swapped between items where needed and only one type carried to cover all items. What I like about the LD22 is its size and power; it’s not overly big for me so makes it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt and weighs hardly anything at 2.1 ounces (60g), in fact, it does feel like just two AA batteries. The build quality is as you would imagine; T6 aircraft-grade aluminium with an anodised finish to aid durability and looks, which for me, makes a difference between the torch performing or not in my working environment. With luminosity operating from 3 to 215 lumens depending on mode, this torch punches above its weight easily amongst others of its category.
Having used this torch consistently over the last ten days, I believe that it is definitely doing what it says on the packet. It has seen a few drops over the marketed height of 1m and shrugged it off happily, performed without complaint outdoors in bad weather and still going strong on the same set of batteries whilst being used within ‘normal’ conditions for duty work. It’s definitely my ‘go-to’ edc torch for work and also play!
I cannot fault the torch whatsoever; it has definitely replaced another branded torch with similar function and attribute, but what wins it for me is weight – it’s just not noticeable. Being critical, the supplied holster doesn’t match the quality of the torch – it feels and looks cheap, and personally, will rehouse the torch in a holster more durable and fitting for purpose.